The Good
The 2008 Grand Caravan offers practical advantages like ample cargo space and Stow 'n Go seating, appealing to families. It provides comfortable ride quality, especially on longer trips. While not a performance vehicle, its V6 engine offers adequate power. Its main appeal lies in its value, offering a lot of space and features for the price. For emotional buyers, it represents family road trips and memories.
The Bad
The 2008 Grand Caravan has known weaknesses. Common issues include electrical problems (power door issues), transmission concerns (rough shifting), and premature brake wear. Some owners reported issues with the climate control system. Rust can be a problem in colder climates, particularly on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells. Always check for these issues before purchasing.
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan offered multiple engine options:
* 3.3L V6: Typically produced around 175 horsepower.
* 3.8L V6: Offered about 205 horsepower.
* 4.0L V6: The most powerful option, delivering approximately 251 horsepower. - Horsepower: As noted above, ranging from 175 hp to 251 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
* 3.3L: Around 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
* 3.8L: Roughly 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway.
* 4.0L: Estimated at 16 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. These figures can vary based on driving habits and vehicle condition. - 0-60 Times: Estimated based on engine:
* 3.3L: Around 11-12 seconds
* 3.8L: Around 10-11 seconds
* 4.0L: Around 8-9 seconds - Towing Capacity: The 2008 Grand Caravan, when properly equipped, could tow up to approximately 3,800 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
* SE: Base model, often included basic features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
* SXT: Mid-range trim, usually added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio, power sliding doors, and possibly the Stow 'n Go seating.
* Limited: Top-of-the-line, included leather seats, premium audio, automatic climate control, and other convenience features.
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Grand Caravan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Cargo Van |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FENTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 14000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Have?
Recalls for the 2008 model year have addressed issues such as potential problems with the speed control system and brake light switch. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the transmission and electrical systems. Rust can become a significant issue, particularly in areas with road salt. Some owners have reported problems with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which can cause a variety of electrical malfunctions. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help mitigate some of these concerns, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems before purchasing a used 2008 Grand Caravan.
How long will the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
In terms of safety, the Grand Caravan came standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC). Side-curtain airbags were also standard. Some trims included optional features like rear parking sensors. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) varied depending on the specific test. It generally scored well in frontal crash tests but had mixed results in side-impact tests. The availability of features like ESC and side airbags played a significant role in overall safety performance. Always check the specific ratings for the 2008 model year from both NHTSA and IIHS for detailed information.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Prices and Market Value
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Cost of Ownership
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Fuel Efficiency
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Compare to Other Van?
Feature-wise, the Grand Caravan offered Stow 'n Go seating, which was a unique selling point. However, the Sienna and Odyssey often had more refined interiors and advanced features. Reliability is where the Grand Caravan lagged behind the Toyota and Honda, with more reported issues.
If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey are better alternatives, albeit at a higher price. A similar alternative, sharing many components, would be the Chrysler Town & Country of the same year. The Grand Caravan is a viable option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize space and features like Stow 'n Go and are willing to accept the potential for more frequent repairs.
Ranks #112 Van
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Sienna | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Odyssey | (4.0★) |
| 3 | 2001 Mazda MPV | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2021 Nissan NV200 | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 GMC Savana | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram ProMaster | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2013 Volkswagen Routan | (4.0★) |
| 12 | 2007 Buick Terraza | (0.0★) |
| 112 | 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Van?
Janice on May 18, 2024
My 08 caravan has 371,000 and still going, it has had aMy 08 caravan has 371,000 and still going, it has had a few issues with brakes replaced often, the front control arms and a front axel was replaced around 250,000 miles but overall I love this van so much I don't trust the newer ones, we bought brand new and purchased the lifetime wrap around warranty, so after 16 years I still drive it, although we have two newer dodge vehicles a truck and charger, I prefer my van
Enthusiastic on March 5, 2024
Dodge is dodging some issuesBought from dealer as a certified used cars and has been great up until issues with misfires of cylinders and key fobs. The A/C has been done twice since purchased and still not functioning. It had issues with no cold air and the control knobs when off is activating the vents causing it to drain the battery dead. CV axles have been replaced twice on each side along with complete hardware of hub and breaks and alignment needed which is redundant. The ABS module was unnecessarily replaced by code showing it was defective . The Gas Cap being loose caused the ABS to give the wrong code and very frustrating trying to TDC the issue. Spent a lot of money to up keep a certified car not to mention losing my job over it. But as mentioned the vehicle is great other than the issues that still exist. Dodge knows what's going on with these vehicles and wondering why they consumer has to deal with these issues that still exists costing everybody money.
Martha Berthin on December 27, 2022
My car always has something wrong and the DealersThey send a recall all the time. And if you don't do it when they call the recall they don't recognize you then it's a car defect and they want to charge you as if it were a car of the year. they lose strength over time.
Michael on June 10, 2022
Bad oil line under hoodOil line rusting very small hole witch began to smoke while driving. Drivers should have the lines look at once a year or if they smell smoke under the hood. Could start a fire
Rigos on May 23, 2020
Very good family car.This car met all the needs. Great for big family it drives good in any whether. Economic very a lot space in the trunk you gonna like it.
ODAWG45$ on January 27, 2020
Swiss Army Knife of carsThe 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is truly a jack of all trades. It's comfortable, has seating for 7, all the rear seats can be stowed away to allow for a huge cargo area. It does it all and then some, the Grand Caravan is great for anyone who has kids, needs to move stuff around, or just likes having space for any occasion.
Mom of 2 on January 20, 2020
Great features but do not last.I loved the features from the stow and go to the window sun shades. But everything seems to quit working. I have owned my van for 2 years and within the first year the third row seat wont fold up, the rear door wont work automatically to shut it. It only works to open with the key or button. The sliding doors randomly lock and wont unlock with the button. The sliding doors like to randomly open even after being cleaned. Its like every electrical option has a malfunction.
Discobus on December 21, 2019
Overall a great value!The grand caravan has plenty of room for our family of five. The stow & go seating is great for when hauling sports equipment or vacation luggage is needed. The reliability of this vehicle is top notch. We've never been let down when it comes to supporting all of our traveling needs.
bensonak on November 16, 2019
Dodge needs to fix this problemWe had the problem that the ignition recall is describing. Power steering and brakes would randomly stop working while driving! I have 3 kids and one on the way and it was so scary going into the middle of an intersection because I couldn't stop! We did the recall. They switched the ignition and it is STILL doing it. It did it once last week and once this week. Dodge needs to figure this out before a family dies.
JackR on March 5, 2019
My Old Grand CaravanHad a 2008 Grand Caravan until May 2, 2019. Good vehicle and I definitely got my money's worth out of it, but once it hit about 120,000 miles it started to get unreliable. Started to lose oil, and eventually had more small gasket leaks than I could count. Also had problems with the body starting to rust out, the electronic door locks, the brakes and alignment, and finally lost the starter, the exhaust system, and the radiator at 146,000 miles. It was a good vehicle, and I got it serviced regularly, but it just didn't last as long as I thought it should. 146,000 miles seems a little early for this vehicle to literally self-destruct.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.